From A Foe To A Friend: The Least Known Facts About Ruto’s ‘Mr. Fix It’—Farouk Kibet

In the intricate web of Kenyan politics, where power is often wielded behind closed doors, one man has emerged as a linchpin in President William Ruto’s inner circle.

Farouk Kibet, a name that evokes both reverence and resentment, is the unseen force shaping the political landscape.

Despite holding no formal office or elected position, Kibet’s influence is unparalleled, earning him the moniker “Mr. Fix It.”

But who is this enigmatic figure, and how did he rise from a political foe to one of Ruto’s most trusted allies?

The Shadowy Power Broker

President Ruto and Farouk just after he had been sworn in as the President.

Farouk Kibet’s influence is felt far beyond his official title as Ruto’s personal assistant. Described as a “woodman” by State House communications advisor Dennis Itumbi, Farouk is the ultimate organizer, a man who ensures the President’s events run seamlessly.

From coordinating logistics to deciding who speaks at public functions, Farouk’s word is often final.

“You cannot access the President if Farouk says no,” Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro once remarked, highlighting Kibet’s gatekeeping role. Even Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, before his fallout with Ruto, acknowledged Kibet’s indispensability, stating that he had to go through Kibet to reach the President.

From Foe to Friend

Kibet’s journey to the heart of power is a tale of political intrigue. In 1997, when Ruto first ran for the Eldoret North parliamentary seat, Kibet was firmly in the camp of Ruto’s opponent, Reuben Chesire.

According to Isaac Maiyo, a long-time Ruto ally, Kibet was initially hostile to Ruto, even hurling insults at his camp. However, after being persuaded to switch sides, Kibet became one of Ruto’s most loyal supporters.

“We made a covenant that we would work together, and that covenant has never been broken,” Kibet once told a local newspaper in an interview. This loyalty has been tested over the years, but Kibet has remained steadfast, earning Ruto’s trust and a place in his inner circle.

The Fixer’s Methods

Farouk’s influence extends beyond logistics. He is known for his ability to read the room, spot potential allies, and neutralize threats. His sharp instincts and no-nonsense approach have made him a feared figure among politicians.

A viral video from a recent event captured Farouk cutting off Mandera Governor Mohamed Adan mid-speech and instructing him to hand over the microphone to another leader. Such actions, while controversial, underscore Farouk’s authority.

However, his methods have also drawn criticism. Gachagua, before his impeachment, accused Farouk of undermining his authority and creating a rift between him and Ruto.

“Even some of his friends, his PA, want to order me around,” Gachagua lamented.

A Man of Mystery

Despite his prominence, little is known about Farouk’s personal life. His academic background remains obscure, with few details available about his education. Yet, this has not hindered his rise. Farouk’s ability to navigate the complex world of Kenyan politics speaks to his street smarts and political acumen.

From Scandals to Survival

Ruto and Farouk (in the background) at a past function.

Farouk is no stranger to controversy. His name surfaced during the infamous National Youth Service (NYS) scandal, where he was alleged to have received funds from a suspect in the Sh791 million graft case.

However, despite calls for his interrogation, the case against him fizzled out.

Additionally, his name was mentioned in the International Criminal Court (ICC) investigations into the 2007-2008 post-election violence, with former prosecutor Fatou Bensouda alleging that he stormed the Eldoret Police Station at the height of the chaos.

He was also accused of tampering with witnesses in Ruto’s ICC case. Despite these, his loyalty to Ruto has not wavered, earning him both respect and fear among political circles.

The Loyal Lieutenant

Those who know Kibet describe him as fiercely loyal to Ruto. “He can die for Ruto,” said a former journalist who once interacted with Farouk regularly. This loyalty has earned him Ruto’s trust, allowing him to operate with unparalleled freedom.

Farouk’s role extends beyond politics. He is a patron of over 11 churches, organizes sports events in the Rift Valley, and sponsors needy students. These activities have endeared him to many, even as his political maneuvers attract criticism.

The Enigma Endures

As Kenya’s political scene continues to evolve, Farouk Kibet remains a figure of intrigue, his influence palpable yet his methods and motives often debated. Whether seen as a dictator of political access or a dedicated servant to the President, his story is one of transformation from a foe to a friend, navigating the intricate dance of power with an almost spectral presence in Kenyan politics.